MANILA — The National Bureau of Investigation (NBI) has summoned Batangas’ Cong. Leandro Leviste and former lawmaker Jing Paras to appear this week as it intensifies its investigation into an alleged scheme to fabricate accusations against Executive Secretary Ralph Recto, with the agency saying it will pursue the case even if those subpoenaed refuse to cooperate.
NBI director Melvin Matibag said the subpoenas, signed Friday last week, were scheduled to be released yesterday, with Leviste and Paras directed to appear before investigators on Thursday.
The investigation stems from statements made by witnesses in a separate human trafficking case, who alleged that Paras approached them with an offer to execute false affidavits implicating Recto in exchange for money.
According to Matibag, the witnesses claimed they were promised payments in installments as the case progressed, with the alleged plan intended to be carried out after President Ferdinand Marcos Jr.’s State of the Nation Address.
Despite the scheduled appearance of Leviste and Paras, the NBI chief said the investigation would continue even if they fail to attend.
“If they will not attend, then we have to deal with it accordingly kung anong ebidensya ang dadating sa amin,” he said.
Matibag stressed that the subpoenas were issued to give both men the opportunity to answer the allegations, adding that investigators are already assessing the statements and admissions obtained from individuals involved in the case.
“Anyway, there’s already the admission and confession nung mga subjects. That’s why they’re being subpoenaed to clear the light no, kung ano bang participation nila talaga,” he said.
The NBI also assured Leviste and Paras that it would help them pursue legal action if the allegations against them are proven to be fabricated.
“Kung wala naman at nag-iimbento lang itong mga tao na ito, we are willing to help them prosecute these personalities,” Matibag added.
Matibag likewise disclosed that Executive Secretary Recto has already started coordinating with NBI investigators through his legal counsel.
Both Leviste and Paras have denied any involvement in the alleged plot./PN
